Alma wants P10-M for her anguish

Actress Alma Moreno says her estranged husband, Parañaque City Mayor Joey Marquez, should pay for the anxiety and untold embarrassment his annulment suit had caused her.

The cost: P10 million.

Based on information contained in her July 11 response to Marquez’s annulment petition, Moreno said the amount is indemnification for "the serious anxiety, mental anguish, and untold embarrassment" the suit has caused.

Moreover, the former actress demanded from the mayor a total P200,000 monthly support for their four young children, for whom she wants custody.

But ultimately, Moreno said, she wants the petition dismissed.

The actress emphasized that Marquez only wants their 12-year marriage annulled because of his "selfish motives, especially in the light of his current and latest love interest."

Moreno was referring to TV host Kris Aquino, whose own family has disapproved of her relationship with the older Marquez.

The petition for annulment is being heard at the sala of Parañaque Judge Helen Ricafort.

Marquez, through lawyer Francisco Chavez, has filed an amended petition in Ricarfort’s sala. The petition reportedly contains more damaging evidence against Moreno.

Earlier, the Office of the Solicitor General, in a 10-page opposition submitted to Ricafort, said Marquez has failed to prove Moreno’s alleged psychological incapacity to enter into a marriage.

Moreno belied all of Marquez’ accusation that their family was never her priority and that she was a spendthrift.

The former sexy star said she shunned vanity, which is important in show business, and even gained weight during their marriage. She also cited instances when she would spoon-feed Marquez while he worked on his computer.

In a telephone interview, Chavez said Moreno has 15 days to answer the amended petition although her lawyers could seek a 15-day extension. "That’s the usual exchange of pleading," he said. Chavez added that the couple might meet in court again next month.

Moreno reportedly became violent and physical during a conciliation meeting she had with Marquez two weeks ago at the judge’s chambers. She became furious after Marquez reportedly said he regretted having married her.

A conciliation meeting is part of the pre-trial in all annulment cases, in the hope that the two parties can still patch up their differences.